posted by Sam Richards
Believe me when I say that I don’t need another reason for wishing that Pat Robertson’s “savior” would just go ahead and call him home. And so why am I talking about this man who is posing as preacher who is posing as an asylum escapee? (Or is it the other way around?)
Here’s what he said about Haiti:
(CNN) — Pat Robertson, the evangelical Christian and host of the “700 Club,” says a “pact to the devil” brought on the devastating earthquake in Haiti.
Robertson blamed the tragedy on something that “happened a long time ago in Haiti, and people might not want to talk about it.” The Haitians “were under the heel of the French. You know, Napoleon III and whatever,” Robertson said on his broadcast Wednesday. “And they got together and swore a pact to the devil. They said, ‘We will serve you if you will get us free from the French.’ True story. And so, the devil said, ‘OK, it’s a deal.’ “
As lame as it may seem, my excuse for bring this up is that I want to make a point about the dangers of living in world of good and evil, black and white while remaining completely surrounded by others who see things just as we do. Seriously. I’ll admit that when I first read Robertson’s words I wanted to go for the jugular. Thumbs to windpipe. But then so many others have done taken up the cause that I decided that I just needed to make a sociological point.
Here’s Olbermann. Ouch. I don’t have to keep up in the ratings and so I don’t need to be so vicious. But truthfully, I can’t say that I’m offended by Olbermann’s attack on a “man of the cloth.” But those are not my thoughts.
Thinking that the “country of Haiti” made a pact with the Devil two centuries ago is probably a pretty good indication that Robertson is mentally ill. Did they actually sign something with ink and a quill? Was there some sort of referendum in which the entire Haitian population participated or was it just a single Haitian leader? I mean really, was the devil hanging out in the Carribean a couple of hundred years ago searching for an unwitting victim in the form of an entire country?
If you encountered someone on the street who told you that the devil is making a pact with, let’s say, Detroit to bring back the auto industry, you wouldn’t give them the time of day. You’d assume that they had gone off their meds and you’d probably be correct. But here’s a guy with a viewing audience in the millions who is saying a similar thing and nobody seems to be changing the channels. Moreover, Robertson himself is not saying that he was wrong in making such statements. This is largely because he doesn’t have people around him to challenge his thinking. The most dangerous position a person can be in, by the way, is that of embracing a black and white ideology of good and bad, right and wrong and not having people around us who think differently than we do and who can reflect alternative ideas back to us.
That the media put a voice to mentally ill people clearly says something about how the rest of us want to see ourselves as superior others or, in this case, be entertained by our own self-righteous indignation. Be clear that few Christians would agree with Robertson and, in fact, I can’t say that I know of any. But when he refuses to take his meds and makes his outlandish comments, then the rest of can feel better about ourselves and so we keep tuning in. “Well, now that guy really is a nut.” Sure, there are a million or so of us who listen to the guy on a regular basis, but even most of these people likely write off these sorts of nutty ideas as a slip of the tongue.
This all goes to say that Olbermann gives Robertson way too much credibility by responding as though the guy is living with a full deck. Let’s just move on.
As a final caveat, the crazy thing is that when I read Robertson’s comments for the first time I actually thought to myself, “Hey, I don’t remember reading this.” Seriously. I got suckered into the man’s insanity for a brief moment. LOL.
In case anyone is interested, here is Jon Stewart discussing these knuckleheads (and Rachel Maddow).
| The Daily Show With Jon Stewart | Mon – Thurs 11p / 10c | |||
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I completely agree with Sam on this post. To start, religion is someone's personal choice and shouldn't be forced upon anyone else. I think it's absolutely ludicrous for Pat Robertson to be saying something like that on national television. First of all he sounded like extremely ignorant when trying to explain the reasoning behind what he was saying. And i quote, "You know, Napoleon III and whatever." Right here he is showing how completely uneducated he is with the entire situation. If you're on national television trying to make a valid point and you use information that you yourself are not even sure about then you're obviously going to look like a completely idiot; and he clearly does. I'm so sick of conservatives on television trying to justify things they do or say that make absolutely no sense. You're right Sam, it's like how in the hell is Pat Robertson supposed to know what exactly went down over two centuries ago? Exactly, he doesn't know. No one knows because how would there be ANY evidence to support it? This is why conservative television needs to get a huge reality check. I have no problem with Keith Oberman and if you think he gets "vicious" with his remarks toward Pat Robertson. I LOVE when Keith Oberman goes on his rants because they're totally valid in my eyes – at least when being compared to horrible news networks; one comes to mind: Fox News, or as I like to call them Faux News.
Haiti is going through what they're going through because of where they happen to live on this planet. Earthquakes are a matter or geology and science – NOT religion! Regardless of whether Haiti made a pact with the devil or not everything that has happened to their country would have happened anyway due to their location above certain rock plates. If Italy and Haiti switched spots on the map when this happened do you think Pat Robertson would've made a comment like that? Hell no! Listen I'm Catholic, even leaning towards just being a non denominational Christian and even I can say that Mr. Robinson was definitely out of line with what he said. I might share the same beliefs as him but in no way does that mean I'm an old ignorant person like him.
A natural disaster is a natural disaster, nothing more nothing less. For him to say that their ancestors made a pact with the devil is insane because if you really want to blame Haiti then he should also put blame on himself and his ancestors for things like slavery to exist. We buy clothes from Walmart that are made in sweat shops by children under ten years old. We are no better than Haiti. They just happened to draw the wrong straw. Maybe what Mr. Robertson should do is get on the bandwagon and focus on helping these poor Haitians out. Excuse my hippie talk, but we all have to survive on this planet together and we all go through some pretty horrible things. I think that filling the air with negative energy isn't helping a single person survive.
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In regards to Pat Robertson’s comments about how the earthquake in Haiti was caused, I believe he is looking a little too much into the religious aspects of the situation and what really happened to these people. Robertson believes that the Haitian’s made a “deal with the devil” in order to escape from the French. Pat Robertson started publicly speaking about the Christian faith in 1960 when he started the Christian Broadcasting Network in 1960 in Virginia. After preaching to people to watch his program about preaching of his religion he has been well known to the public sphere. Now, more then ever he will be known about his comments that he made on Tuesday. Robertson said that the Haitians were being punished because they made this “pact” with the devil over 200 years ago. In my opinion I believe that Robertson is living in the time when he started his broadcasting Network. In my eyes I believe that Robertson is straight out disrespectful and is taking this religion thing a little to far. Me, being a Christian myself do not believe in this nonsense that because they made this pact that the earthquake is revenge for making this pact with Satan.
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I believe that when people are at the end of their road on earth God comes to take us away to bring us to a better place in eternal peace ness. When Robertson made these comments, he bluntly said that he does not care what is happening to the Haitians because he believes so strongly in his religion. The way that I look at it is that every person on this world is equal. No matter what color we are, what religion we follow, or where we are located on the planet. Everyone is put on this world without their choice of who their family is, how wealthy they are, or even if they will have the bare necessities. I first heard about Robertson’s comments on a talk radio show and then after saw it on basically every news channel since. People need to contribute to any fund that is possible so we can help them in any possible way. If you are very religious in the Catholic faith I ask u to consider the things that Robertson had said and do not agree that what these poor people are going through is payback from God.
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Our religion says that we should nurture every person and do everything in our power to help each other during harsh times. What has happened in Haiti is more than harsh. If you are a follower of what Robertson believes I ask you to think about how you would feel if you were in their position. They have nothing and our relying on people in the world to help them. Even though we are in a so-called depression, these people are without homes, do not know where their families are, and have none of their necessitates of life. After seeing all of the criticism that Robertson has faced since he made these comments I think he will have less viewers on his program. I, for one am glad that when he ran for President in 1988 he never won and had a chance to be the leader of our country.
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I am truly stunned at the approach Pat Robertson took on the Haiti situation. The Haitian people are going through incredibly difficult times, and they need all the help and support they could possibly get. Religion has always been a source of comfort for the weak and hopeless. Religion is supposed to raise one’s spirits and reassure that good will come. Pat Robertson calls himself a reverend, and a reverends’ job is to preach the will of God. I believe that religion should be a positive aspect in a persons’ life. Religion should be there to support those in need rather than criticize and put down.
People often rely on religion when they are at their lowest and they feel that hope is lost. The loss of a loved one, financial crises, or unexplained natural disasters cause people to resort to prayer for answers and comfort in confusing times. Patrick Robertson is in a position in the religious community where he has incredible influence on his listeners. I feel that instead of using his position to uplift the spirits of those affected by the Haitian earthquake, he basically says that they had it coming and they deserved it, which is against everything the bible teaches.
Jon Stewart quotes the bible: “be not dismayed for I am thy God and I will strengthen thee,” as he criticizes Robertson for his cold shoulder to the Haitians. Stewart hit the nail on the head. The bible speaks of forgiveness, salvation, and the giving of oneself to help others in need. Robertson fails to do so as he expresses negativity surrounding an urban myth. He is adamant that the Haitians must suffer as a result of the deal that their ancestors made with the devil. This shows a lack of compassion and forgiveness, which are other traits of Christianity. This reassures me that he is truly out of line and should be removed from his position as a national figure of Christianity. A more competent reverend should replace him to do justice to what Christianity is all about.
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Pat Robertson is a buffoon and no one should give him a microphone. It’s hard to find words to describe exactly how idiotic and ignorant his statements are about Haiti. As a broadcast journalism major, I’m disappointed that anyone would put him on air. I despise what some people will do for ratings. If you watch the interviewers reactions seen in the clip from The Daily Show with Jon Stewart, it looks like she is ready to throw up. You can see in her face how appalled she is by his statement and how much effort it is taking for her to keep any sort of composure. Where do people get the rationality to claim that something like this would happen by signing a contract with the devil? How would he rationalize someone he loved getting very ill? Would that also be a pact that they have made with satan or would that simply fall under the category of “God’s will”? There are many things that I try very hard to understand in the world, but understanding the madness of such a person is not high on my list of information I would like to waste my brain cells on. The horrific state that Haiti is in and the efforts of people to help those whose lives have been turned upside by such tragedy seem like a much better alternative to such stupid uttering’s from a man who obviously is missing any sort of understanding for devastation. Even celebrities, who have a tendency to make dim-witted statements about almost everything, have the decency to use their celebrity status to help raise money for those in Haiti. Hope for Haiti was found on literally 59 different channels on my TV tonight. I counted. While I like to learn all sides of a story and see what different attitudes people hold towards a situation, statements like those from Pat Robertson are simply unworthy any of our time. However, it is good to know that some people who are given positions of power and persuasion are, to put it nicely, completely brainless. I cannot believe that any person could have so little heart or sympathy for the hundreds of thousands of people who lost their lives in Haiti, to all of the children who no longer have parents, to all of the parents who no longer have children, and to the people in other countries whose families were in Haiti during this devastating tragedy. I hope that no other corporations will decide that people like Robertson are good for ratings and concentrate instead on the millions of people who are using their time to help those in Haiti. I would like to see more hype about their efforts instead of his foolish opinions.
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As someone who grew up in a society where the majority of the population is Muslim I always had questions about religion. Questions about heaven and hell, the holy trinity, muslim women wearing hijabs and many others. And I can honestly say that one of the reasons that made me question religion was the behavior and words of people like Pat Robertson. People like Pat Robertson choose to interpret religion in however they want and the sad thing is that there are people out there that listen to them and believe in what they say. It is discomforting that people like him hold such great influence over people and there is nothing done about it. Like Jon Stewart said on his show people like Pat Robertson
Who claim to be man of religion has a lot of things to draw on from their religion and give comfort to people that are devastated but they choose blame those people for what happened to them. The worst thing for me is that this is not the first time I hear someone blame the people that were affected by the tragedy that they faced. In 1999 two devastating earthquakes happened in turkey and over 30 thousand people died and a lot more lost their homes and from that time I remember there were some Muslim Extremists that claimed these earthquakes happened because of the sins of people that lived on those cities that were affected by the earthquakes. When it comes to Olbermann I feel like you do. I know that his attack was so vicious because he has to keep up with the ratings but in my point of view people like Robertson deserve to be seen as mentally ill because they live in their own imaginary worlds in which they interpret religion and other things however they wish. On the other hand talking about these people actually helps them stay on the news . And about him not having anyone around him to challenge his thinking I believe that people like him have a way of ignoring anything that is contrary to their own ideas. So whatever we do they will still see the world as black and white and never question their own beliefs. And like you said Olbermann gives Robertson too much credibility by responding to him.
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After reading this blog and watching all the videos I have come to the conclusion that Pat Robinson is someone who doesn’t deserve having his opinion heard. For someone to speak with such cold words during a time of need shows his true agenda. If he was legit and legit at what he does he would of spoken words of inspiration and hope to reach those who need it. The fact that he chooses to say things like that shows the side he is on and how much he doesn’t support the aid and relief efforts in Haiti. His utter stupidity should not be listened to, it is crazy that people like him manage to get themselves on television, but in today’s society that seems to be the norm. Even still I can go on and on about how disrespectful his speech was and that Pat Robinson has no soul, but at the end of the day it is us that are contributing to this off topic and yet still we have our sights not set on the real task at hand. I think that it is ridiculous that both Pat Robinson and Rush Limbaugh said what they said, but we are still the ones analyzing it after the fact. Yes they were both out of line but should we still be talking about them, or how we can contribute to any relief effort in Haiti? A whole country got devastated by a 7.0 earthquake. That statement alone goes to show how much more privileged we are compared to them. Their whole country being devastated tells you how fragile and poor their infrastructure is and how limited their resources really are. Even survivors of the earthquake are dying due to thirst because supplies of water have not reached them. But after Katrina it took the government 5 days to get water to the superdome in New Orleans, so what really can you expect. Although I say we should be doing our part toward the cause, that doesn’t necessarily mean donating money. I agree with donations and am glad that Prof Richards sent around donation baskets in class, I just don’t like to donate money. I feel as though donating money never makes it to the people who really need it. Money is like a drug, it will always find its way into the wrong hands. Instead of donating money I donate canned food products and/or donations at clothing bins. I feel that you know canned food will make it to its destination and that it is truly helping out someone in need. If we raised $4000 and we sent $4000 worth of food donations, I think that would do a lot more for a lot more people than just sending the tender. Even $4000 worth of crated water would have really made a difference to a group of people in need down there.
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I cannot stress enough retarded Pat Robinson sounds when he started that comment. This man is, a man of the cloth, stating such things. I agree with John Stewart, why doesn't he just talk about a few sections from the bible and send his peace, wish them luck, and prayer? Who knows. As far as Olbermann, his comments are just way over board. Robinson is old, and probably has a few loose screws up there. But that does not give Olbermann the right to be so harsh on the guy. I believe in fairness at high levels, and everyone has a right to explain themselves to a degree. Olbermann just took it too far when he made a few comments. And since this will be long gone and forgotten in the next few days, I would like to say, this is more than an opportunity to rebuild and make things better, why would you want to linger on the ideas of who fault it is, or some crazy wacked up conspiracy. These people are just like any of us, and this disaster can happen anywhere in the world. this is just another situation where politics just do not mix with religion.
I can see people believe what Robinson had to say. a lot of people do not even realize this, but a lot of it has a lot to do with authority. Take for example. when we read something from Aristotle, we believe a lot of his writings and philosophies because we find him to be creditable. Have we ever meet him? seen him speak? no but its because of this authoritative belief that we could find people believe what Robinson is saying. there are few difference but the point is that we put Robinson on this pedestal as some kind of news anchor, and because of this he has a voice at a National level. Clear and simple what has to be done, clearly he needs to be taken off the air/find a replacement for him. Clearly he was not in the right state of mind, or if he was, then that just messed up.
So sad that people consider this a moment for the government to get back into good terms with colored people. that just a load of crap. honestly, what kind of person would think that way? I feel like a lot of people are taking Obama's presidency WAY to SERIOUS. I have never really heard so much stuff about the president until this past year. Im pretty sure i saw almost every single one of obama's vacation places this summer. society really needs to relax the guy. there is a lot of pressure on him as it is. I mean its ridiculous he doesn't have a pope mobile yet…GIVE IT A BREAK
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To be completely honest I can’t believe that the media would give quotes like this so much attention. I do understand how someone with such strong religious beliefs might actually believe that something like this may be true, but I do agree that he had to have been “mentally ill” to ever voice something like this to people during these times. For Pat Robertson to say what he had to say regarding a deal with the devil was completely idiotic to publicly announce but I think that it’s a terrible idea for the media to give this any focus at all. Think of how many people actually listen to Rush Lambaugh everyday and yet think about how many people find out what he said later that day, from one simple media network. If the media would let this pass by the waist side, yes there would still be controversy and minor flair ups against him from time to time, but in a more controlled area. This is not the type of thing people want to hear regarding this issue, and yet the media continues to expose us with things like this just to continue to flair up emotions.
As for Olbermann’s comments, I thought that what he had to say was completely necessary and that Robertson must be out of his mind and heartless to say something like that during a time like this. To be completely honest after reading Sal_Nandez’s wall post, I also feel that even what he had to say in his closing sentence was completely necessary too. This guy really must be screwed up in the head to say such a comment and really does not deserve all the publicity or for anyone to really know his name.
I also recently read Emily Butzner’s comments and can’t believe how the entire time this was going on I wasn’t thinking about how much we are all pretty much the same, and didn’t realize how much of what we already learned in Soc 119 can already be involved in an issue like this. We are all going to die someday. But Obermann said it best in his comments, for this was a perfect roast of Pat Robertson and Rush Lambaugh. To be completely honest Jeffrey Ross couldn’t have developed a more appropriate and better roast for these two individuals. Even though Haiti may be publicly viewed as one of those witch craft cultures, now’s not the time to chastise a country for their cultural practices but rather to embrace the opportunity to show sympathy not apathy. During the aftermath of a natural catastrophy that has implications world wide it is necessary to help those less fortunate than us. I made it!
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It was very interesting to read Professor Richards views on the Pat Robertson’s ridiculous thoughts on Haiti. For once, in maybe my entire college career, a professor actually says, straight forwards how they feel on a certain subject. It was really nice to get an idea of not only what a teacher thinks but also why.
I had heard of the comments that Pat Robertson had made on Haiti and I was extremely taken aback. I really appreciated that the actual quote was provided, so I could make a decision on how I truly felt about it, and have it not be based on rumors or hearing only bits and pieces of the actual quote.
After reading the provided quote, and what Professor Richards had to say about it, I have to agree to some level that what Pat Robertson said is ridiculous. I don’t discount what Professor Richards said, but I personally am not one to go so far as to say that a person might have come from a mental institution. It was really interesting to see how Professor Richards felt on the situation, and I honestly do agree. How can a person actually believe that a country, or was it a leader? Or maybe an entire government would sign something with the actual devil. Come on! I find it really crazy that someone would actually let this guy say those things and still let him be considered a voice of reason.
I totally agree with Professor Richards’ comments on that nobody is challenging this guy. I am not very informed on what Pat Robertson does, is known for, etc, but from reading the blog, it seems that people are just taking what he said. I was really surprised I did not hear much on the subject after these comments. Nobody in power wants to refute what he said and actually explain that what happened in Haiti was an earthquake? That it was a horrible, unstoppable event that the people in Haiti didn’t ask for?
I really would be interested to see what happens with the future of Pat Robertson. I really wonder if people will continue to let this old man talk about nonsense and not even question it. I think its interesting to consider this because other people in the media who have made outlandish comments are sometimes forced out of their jobs, perhaps this is another case? I suppose we’ll have to wait and see.
The video included at the end of the blog was a nice touch. I think it’s important in these blogs to include some video footage of the actual account, and include other things, such as the Rachel Maddow footage as well. I think that was important to include, because it shows us that not all people are heartless and can just get the facts straight.
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It was very interesting to read Professor Richards views on the Pat Robertson's ridiculous thoughts on Haiti. For once, in maybe my entire college career, a professor actually says, straight forward how they feel on a certain subject. It was really nice to get an idea of not only what a teacher thinks but also why.
I had heard of the comments that Pat Robertson had made on Haiti and I was extremely taken aback. I really appreciated that the actual quote was provided, so i could make a decision on how I truly felt about it, and have it not be based on rumors or hearing only bits and pieces of the actual quote.
After reading the provided quote, and what Professor Richards had to say about it, I have to agree to some level that what Pat Robertson said is ridiculous. I don't discount what Professor Richards said, but i personally am not one to go so far as to say that a person might have come from a mental institution. It was really interesting to see how Professor Richards felt on the situation, and I honestly do agree. How can a person actually believe that a country, or was it a leader? Or maybe an entire government would sign something with the actual devil. Come on! I find it really crazy that someone would actually let this guy say those things and still let him be considered a voice of reason .
I totally agree with Professor Richards' comments on that nobody is challenging this guy. I am not very informed on what Pat Robertson does, is known for, etc, but from reading the blog, it seems that people are just taking what he said. I was really surprised I did not hear much on the subject after these comments. Nobody in power wants to refute what he said, and actually explain that what happened in Haiti was an earthquake? That it was a horrible, unstoppable event that the people in Haiti didn't ask for?
I really would be interested to see what happens with the future of Pat Robertson. I really wonder if people will continue to let this old man talk about nonsense and not even question it. I think it's interesting to consider this because other people in the media who have made outlandish comments are sometimes forced out of their jobs, perhaps this is another case? I suppose we'll have to wait and see.
The video included at the end of the blog was a nice touch. I think it's important in these blogs to include some video footage of the actual account, if available, and include other things such as the Rachel Maddow footage as well. I think that was important to include because it shows us that not all people are heartless and can just get the facts out straight.
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Watching Pat Robertson's stupid remark made me really angry. Of all the things to say about the horrible earthquake that happened in Haiti, Robertson chose to say that the earthquake happened because of a pact with the devil? He could have talked about the many missionaries that are in Haiti in aid. He could have talked about many churches' attempt to collect money and goods for Haiti. He could have talked about anything! Anything else would have sufficed. But no, he chose to talk about a nonsensical pact with the devil! “True story,” he said, but really? It makes even less sense than unicorns and pots of gold at the end of the rainbow. What factual information can he provide to back an outrageous statement as that? A lot of people above me have also commented about how stupid he is, but I can't help but reiterate. I mean, how else am I supposed to express my frustration toward this stupidity?
As a Christian myself, it makes me cringe to think that there might be people that associate all Christians with a guy like Robertson. There are so many Christians that are doing their best to aid Haiti – providing aid by both volunteering and sending help from far away. It's not just Christians that have offered to help Haiti – it seems that everyone in the world except a “select few” like Robertson are concerned about Haiti and its people. So why must Robertson taint his title as “Reverand” and accuse Haitians of dealing with the devil? Even if it were true, which obviously is not, such a thing is not necessary to say in midst of a devastating situation. Even if the devil told Robertson himself that there was a fact, it was the most unncessary comment to have been made. Olbermann was rather colorful in the words he used to talk about Robertson and his statement, but I think every word of Olbermann's was necessary in describing this guy – he's a disgrace to Christians and human beings in general!
It also shocks me to think that there are other people in the world that view tragedies in the same way Robertson views them. And the problem is that there's no one around them that is able to correct them – whether it be because they feel the same way or they're too intimidated by the person's status to say otherwise. The saying “ignorance is bliss” certainly does not apply in this situation. It makes me glad that I am able to receive education that allows me to think for myself but also lets me to intake others' ideas. Instead of being force-fed information, I am able to digest it and make it my own.
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First of all, I never have even heard of Pat Robertson before. Now, hopefully that doesn’t speak volumes about my knowledge of current events, and instead speaks to the fact that I’ve never in my life even accidentally flipped to the 700 Club show. In any case, I agreed with the immediate “go for the jugular” response when I read what Robertson said. I mean really, the absurdity of it is almost laughable—if it wasn’t about something as serious and devastating as the recent earthquake in Haiti. A pact with the devil over 200 years ago is the cause of this tragedy? What’s even more absurd is that some people actually believe him, actually follow his word and sit with their eyes and ears glued to the television screen, wanting more. The ignorance that at times permeates through the media in this country is baffling, and more than anything, is saddening. Just the other day, I read a Facebook status of one of my “friends” that said something along the lines of: “I think I like animals more than people. I mean, I really don’t give a shit about what’s going on in Haiti or about the people there, and I felt the same way about Katrina. But when I see a dead animal on the side of the road or information of cruelty to animals, it makes me want to cry.” Again my immediate reaction was to go for the jugular. I mean honestly, the ridiculousness of this comment astounds me. This kid, who at this point will remain nameless, got about 30 responses to his status, most of which condemning his inhumanity. This condemnation at least shows there are still some sane, compassionate people in this world, but I can still not help but be incredibly bothered by this person’s words, and now again by the words of Pat Robertson. I cannot think of any other word to describe it but sheer ignorance. As a television persona, Robertson is in a position of great power because he can reach many more hearts and minds than if he were standing on his soapbox on a street corner, a fact that makes his ridiculous statement even more nauseating. What is the solution to this, though? Are we doomed, as a country that has been built on the principle of freedom of speech, to be subject to this brand of insanity? Instead of banding together to support this impoverished country that needs our aid more than ever, Robertson condemns them as deserving their fate for making a deal with the devil over two centuries ago. It is incredibly sad that this type of ignorance exists, and in full force, through the religious zealousness of this man, and through no doubt many of his brainwashed followers.
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Pat Robertson's comments about the tragedy in Haiti were outrageously imcompassionate and cynical. A man who claims to be a man of god tries to turn Christianity against those who need inspiration and hope more than ever. Religion is a source of guidance and salvation, and by claiming that such a horrific tragedy was of no fault but their own is simply atrocious. Many people have been able to excuses his ridiculous comments as "ill minded" but he has surprisingly developed a substantial following. The reason he has been able to continue to make such outrageous statements, such as his comments concerning Katrina and comparing liberals to Nazi, is because a vast amount of people actually agree with what he has to say. It is after his last comment about Haiti that I hope his number of followers begin to dwindle because regardless of your religious views you should show compassion in the most dire of times. Now I am a strong supporter of everyone is right to freedom of speech so I believe Pat Robertson is entitled to his opinion, but when you have nothing constructive to say about an extremely sensitive matter such as Haiti, and you simply kick an entire nation when it's down, then your voice does not have the privilege to be heard.
As for Rush Limbaugh, it is now clear that his Obama bashing knows no boundaries. I have become accustomed to hearing Rush's comments on every minor and major development within the white house, and how he portrays the current administration as pure evil. By showing his lack of discretion with his last comments, trying to imply that Obama (the American government) is taking advantage of the situation in order to generate a stronger humanitarian image, shows just how low Rush is willing to stoop. Rush's initial feelings ,when hearing of the earthquake in Haiti, where of how the current administration would exploit the situation as opposed to his own personal feelings of sympathy or grief. He ended up doing more damage to his own public image with his comments than his criticism have done to the Obama administration. In a time like this, men with as much public recognition as Rush should use their position as a means to gather people together and possibly collect donations, but instead he spins peoples perspectives on the crisis to see it as nothing more than a government credential exploit.
Anyone who listened to comments presented by Pat Robertson and/or Rush Limbaugh should be appalled, not as Christians, Democrats, or Republicans, but as human beings. When there are human lives lost at such a tremendous scale as Haiti it is our obligation to lend a helping hand to our fellow man. No one can have any excuse for no contributing, especially when the cause is a natural disaster, a force which is unbiased and does not discriminate…
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To be honest I have never heard of Pat Robertson in my life; however I am shocked that people are able to believe something as ridiculous as the statement I just read. I think this just shows how easily people can be influenced by what the media feed them. It is one thing to bring god into this, but to say that the people of Haiti made a deal with the devil is just crazy. Setting aside most valid points that people with any common sense would make; how on earth would it be possible for the people of Haiti to make such a deal with the devil ? I’m shocked that any news channel would even take a statement like that seriously let alone broadcast it for the whole world to see. I think that if people were more educated about other countries or about religion then it would be almost impossible to believe, or even think twice about a statement like that.
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Absolutely ridiculous to make a claim that the devastation in Haiti was caused due to a pact with the devil. Not only is this ignorant and silly, but when you sign a pact with the devil at least in the movies which is just as credible as Robertson’s sources, most situations it causes immediate success followed by a bad situation down the line. Haiti has been a poor country for years and years, and then even more devastation happened. If Reid is making comments about Barack Obama that are racial insensitive then I think Robertson should get negative attention for being insensitive to every Haitian, his focus should be on the problem and how we can help not a bogus cause of the problem basically saying it is their own fault and deserved it. I have seen people get kicked off television for making less ignorant and insensitive comments than this.
Pat Robertson is one of many who believe the bible in literal terms which is fine. I know many people who feel humans were created several thousands years ago, and language was created at the Tower of Babel. He is simply stuck in his fundamental ways and no one will ever change his point of view. Natural disasters in the bible have been described as God sent before, so his rational can not be completely crazy…right?
However since he thinks Haiti signed this devil pact, does he also think we should not help them because they are associated with the devil? I think that is an important question, does he have any human compassion when viewing the tragedy or is that country as a whole disregarded due to the fact they did something he disagrees with, or even is a afraid to help because it would taint his holy life. No matter what set of ideals someone else has you should never shut them out. When you adopt a religion it should not cut you off from others who do not adopt that way of life, and it no way does it make you better than them. I can only speculate whether or not Pat Robertson feels bad for the Haiti situation, but I do know he feels it was caused by their wrong doings. I honestly feel like he means well, I just feel sorry for him. He has had the same outlook of life and the same ideals have been preached into him since a child. He honestly believes this is the way the world works. It would have been more productive to talk about fixing the Haiti situation, but this issue needs to be addressed as well
This is a close second to ridiculous statement made by Robertson behind his claim that he can leg press 1000 lbs.
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I consider myself a Christian but it is people like Pat Robertson that make me ashamed to be associated with the same religious group. I mean, honestly, a pact with the devil? I cant believe that someone would not only think something like this but would also publicly and openly present it as a legitimate explanation of a tragic event. Upon hearing this religious rationale for the Haitian earthquake, I immediately thought back to the tsunami that occurred in 2004. I remember people claiming that this too was an act of God, a way of punishing the pagans in Indonesia. People pointed to the fact that this tragedy occurred the day after Christmas and that a natural disaster of such magnitude could only come from the mighty hand of God. Similarities to the Biblical story of Noahs ark were even drawn. However, I strongly doubt that God would punish people so drastically- even those that do not believe in Him. As Christians- and even as just human beings with hearts- we should simply see others in need- not their religious affiliations, not their nationalities, not their social views.
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How can people even stand for this man to be their leader in any way? I mean it’s just utterly absurd that any group of people in the United States looks so poorly on a man of a different race. It’s really sad the race is even a matter in an election of a sort. It should matter what color, gender, size, or religion should never decide who you vote for. You should always vote on the candidate with ideas you have. I had a teacher in my high school social studies class who had us pick who to vote for by filling out a chart and how important each issue was for you specifically which side you agreed with ranking the top candidates. Then at the end it was revealed which number was which candidate and so many people were shocked to see who they actually agreed with more. Single issue voters really scare me in our society where there is so much to be concerned with.
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The comments made by Pat Robertson and Rush Limbaugh shouldn't scare us; these comments wouldn't cause any stir if made by some deranged homeless person. What makes these remarks different is that they were made by people with a following and not just any following, a big following. These comments aren't scary until you find out that there are people who actually believe these paranoid, delusional diatribes. Worse yet, there are constantly people being convinced by the rhetoric of Robertson and Limbaugh.
While I like to give the benefit of the doubt and say that most people aren't phased by the words of Robertson and Limbaugh, it concerns me that anyone could be moved to follow these two men's beliefs. The only way I can possibly believe that these men command a following is if their voices are the only ones heard in some circles. I find it easy to imagine a flock being led astray when they listen to only one voice; I can imagine that if I had absolutely no knowledge of astronomy I could be convinced that the stars were just about anything if only one person were doing the explaining. However, we are fortunate enough to live in a day where there is a plurality of opinions on topics ranging from fishing techniques to international politics. (Perhaps too many opinions?) Not only are there ample viewpoints to consider on any topic but we live in a country where we are free, even encouraged, to do so! So why then do people adhere to the radical agendas of the Rush Limbaughs and Pat Robertsons of the world?
When I am watching TV late night attempting to cure insomnia I often flip through the channels only to be greeted by the likes of Sean Hannity, Pat Robertson and others of this ilk. In the absence of better programming, I’ll often see what these people have to say since their views contradict with mine so strongly. I typically find myself moved to anger within minutes. I think to myself, ‘I’m fine with people having different opinions but this crosses the line into lunacy.’ I disagree so strongly with what is being said that I change the channel.
I am guilty of the same sort of one track thought that Limbaugh and Robertson make millions on, albeit on a different scale. I find it uncomfortable to be confronted by views different than my own, but who ever said being uncomfortable is a bad thing? I’ve always thought one of the great things about visiting another country is precisely that it makes you uncomfortable. As most people prefer to avoid the discomfort of a novel idea, opinion, or situation, Limbaugh and Robertson revel in the opportunity to feed people the same monotonous ideas day after day after week after year. Perhaps for vacation this year little less R&R (Rush and Robertson, that is) is in order.
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When I first read Robertson’s words, I also wanted to go for the jugular! That is such a crazy thing to suggest. He must be mentally ill. What happened in Haiti is not from a pact made with the devil. He suggests that they made a pact with the devil to get out from under the French, that’s just silly. Why is he looking to put blame on the Haitians for what happened? It was not their fault and the fact that he said that is kind of an insult. This man clearly needs some help. Why does he even have his own television show?
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I consider myself a Christian but it is people like Pat Robertson that make me ashamed to be associated with the same religious group. I mean, honestly, “a pact with the devil”? I can’t believe that someone would not only think something like this but would also publicly and openly present it as a legitimate explanation of a tragic event. Upon hearing this religious rationale for the Haitian earthquake, I immediately thought back to the tsunami that occurred in 2004. I remember people claiming that this too was an act of God, a way of punishing the “pagans” in Indonesia. People pointed to the fact that this tragedy occurred the day after Christmas and that a natural disaster of such magnitude could only come from the mighty hand of God. Similarities to the Biblical story of Noah’s ark were even drawn. However, I strongly doubt that God would “punish” people so drastically- even those that do not believe in Him. As Christians- and even as just human beings with hearts- we should simply see others in need- not their religious affiliations, not their nationalities, not their social views.
What I love about the people of my generation is that the vast majority is very open-minded, but there is still room for improvement. Prejudice still occurs. If you walk through the dining halls here at Penn State, you can see a clear separation of races and cultural backgrounds. I was shocked to see this when I first arrived at school because I grew up in a very diverse area with people of all colors and creeds. I thrive on diversity. All of us sat the lunch tables together- Hispanics with whites with blacks with Asians with Indians. We didn’t have the racial divisions that Penn State has.
So often we see hatred and prejudice rise up between people because of a lack of understanding. I believe that if we surround our children with other children of other races, cultures, and socioeconomic levels, we will do our children a great service. Younger children tend to be very accepting; thus, if they grow up with children that are different than they are, they will befriend these children and these friendships will hopefully last through the years. The friendship bond will cause them to overlook the physical and cultural differences between them; they will understand that they are all human beings with the same heart.
We should all strive every day to take down the wall of prejudices that we have built up around ourselves. Take a moment to talk to someone you wouldn’t usually talk to; get to know them. What do they like to do? What kind of beliefs do they have? What do they want to do with their life? Trust me- talking to people is a great way to learn about the world- and a great way to break down prejudice and make our world a better place.
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Its funny because as much as I would like to admit that this guy is mentally ill, I kind of believe him. Although he is not a native Haitian and could not possibly know the “hidden truth” behind the country’s history I would not doubt that something like this actually happened. Witchcraft is practice in many countries all over the world and there are people who are followers of the devil.
On the other hand, Haiti is known as one of the poorest country in the world and its hard to believe that they could make such a pact with the devil and not weep the benefits. The devil should be capable of providing them with wealth and all other things “of the world”.
I guess you can say the guy is mentally ill for coming up with such a strange scenario. I believe everything happens for a reason and for every action there is a reaction. who knows what could have happened in the past. At the same time why are people trying to analyze the situation? The country’s traumatic experience could be a result of natural disaster just like Katrina and the people of New Orleans.
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Its funny because as much as I would like to admit that this guy is mentally ill, I kind of believe him. Although he is not a native Haitian and could not possibly know the "hidden truth" behind the country's history I would not doubt that something like this actually happened. Witchcraft is practice in many countries all over the world and there are people who are followers of the devil.
On the other hand, Haiti is known as one of the poorest country in the world and its hard to believe that they could make such a pact with the devil and not weep the benefits. The devil should be capable of providing them with wealth and all other things "of the world".
I guess you can say the guy is mentally ill for coming up with such a strange scenario. I believe everything happens for a reason and for every action there is a reaction. who knows what could have happened in the past. At the same time why are people trying to analyze the situation? The country's traumatic experience could be a result of natural disaster just like Katrina and the people of New Orleans.
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Part One; Pat Robertson, Sarah Palin, Keith Olbermann, Rush Limbaugh, Bill O'Reilly, and yes the Glenn Beck, all these people have one thing in common, they're entertainers posing as people with some kind justified reason for having television shows. Why does Pat Robertson feel he needs to amp up the Haiti story, like its not a big enough event by itself. I was thinking about this the other day, when did the news become about entertainment? Was it like this when I was a kid and I just didn't not know any better. The answer to that question is NO! The news used to be the news. Now its all about some loudmouth assholes opinion. Why should we even listen to what they say? Their a bunch of actors who read a script written by people who will write whatever the network tells them to write. Do you really think Glenn Beck is some kind of political genius?! He is just their to support peoples ideas who already think the same way as his character on TV. Cable news doesn't care about reporting the news, they care about beating the others cable news channels. The cable news networks could learn a few lessons from local news and or Joe Friday, you know "just the facts".
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Part Two; And as for Pat Robertson, is there really anybody who takes this guy seriously? Even the people who watch his show have to think somewhere in the back of their minds that he is completely insane. I mean saying that the Haitians made a deal with Satan to get rid of the French and that god punished them with an earthquake is so crazy that my crazy meter has been reset. That's like saying Thomas Jefferson is responsible for Hurricane Katrina because he made the Louisiana Purchase from the French and Satan brokered the deal. I don't understand why the cable news networks would give this hateful person such a large stage to advertise his insanity. I don't watch the 700 Club, I don't know a single person who watches the 700 Club even by accident flipping through the channels, I don't even know what channel the 700 Club is on. Paying attention to what Pat Robertson has to say is like listening to the guy on the street corner who's screaming about the end of world. I knew that Pat Robertson was a crazy snake oil salesman, but these comments really brought him down to a new low. Anybody who would send this guy money really needs to take a look at themselves. I'm not sure which is worse, if he actually believes what he is saying, or if he is saying it to please the people who do believe in this garbage. I hope the cable news networks think twice the next time Pat Robertson says something so hateful and that they decide to just ignore him. Also, I like Keith Olbermann, but he should go back to Sports Center before he ends up just like the Glenn Beck.
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I am writing in response to Sam Richard's post, "Clubbing the 'Bejesus' Out of Rationality". Pat Robertson's whimsical claim that Haiti "made a pact with the devil", I feel, is extremely condescending and righteous. As Sam said, it is not like the whole country of Haiti one day passed around a petition to make a pact with the devil in favor of freedom from the French. The last time I checked, freedom is fought through bloody wars and revolutions, and gained through the persevarence of a council of leaders that strive to push change. For sure, freedom does not immediately come to anyone, let alone a nation, by signing a pact with a creature such as "the devil". It truly scares the '"bejesus" out of me to think that the millions of viewers who watch Robertson's 700 Club will believe the nonsense that comes from this guy's mouth. Who is he to think that he is some sort of superior being to an entire destitute nation of Haitians, a people who literally have close to nothing and have recently lost close to everything? …And this is all because of a pact they made with the devil long ago… yeah, right. It makes me stop to wonder about what else this guy is preaching to mass audiences. Is Robertson twisting real-life stories in defense of guilty parties, or is he headlining certain innocent people, races, religions, and ethic groups as malicious? As for the rest of us, we can only hope that some of Robertson's viewers were are able to think for themselves in a situation such as this to fully comprehend the outrageousness in which Robertson preaches. I agree with Sam in that his remarks make it seem like there is a succinct distinction between "good and bad" and "black and white". In my opinion, Robertson is viewing himself as the superior, "good" white man and is finding it necessary to explain the devastation, or in this case, "bad" that has erupted in Haiti, a "black" community. If Robertson is supposed to be a "Man of God" and a true Christian, why is he trying to create separation and chaos in a nation struck by tragic times? If anything, shouldn't he be trying to mend the wounds and bring the enlightenment of Christianity to Haiti? Where's the inspiration here, where are the saviors? It's sensible to think that when disaster strikes, people want to return the normality back into their life as soon as possible. Robertson's irrational claim may be one of the furthest from normal or rational beliefs. While the rest of the world is trying to aid a broken nation, Robertson is trying to find demented explainations as to why Haiti is fully deserving of such tragedy.
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I have heard this story floating around recently but I wasn’t sure how accurate it was. Now I see that it is a little more credible by what I just read by Pat Robertson. As a Christian, if the people of Haiti really did make some sort of pact with the devil, then I hate to say it but they got what they put in. I’m not judging their beliefs, and I’m sure that they had some idea of what retaliation could come. But perhaps they were that desperate to be free in that case I might have possibly done it myself. This is a touchy subject because all Christians don’t think the same; personally I would hope that God wouldn’t be so upset that he would have such a horrible destruction occur.
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I remember myself just in awe of the accusations made by Pat and Rush. First with Pat , I understand that he is old and he has his opinions on the subject but there is no reason that he should make such accusations based on his own personal biases. I have read the Bible from front to back and do not remember the slightest mention of the pact between the devil and the Haitians. I think it is preposterous that he is allowed to keep hosting that show. As a Christian he should have compassion and sympathy for what has happened. I think that him being a few cards short of a deck has no effect on the morals or competency of the producers of the show. But yet they allow him to stay on. Now with Rush, I don’t think that the Obama administration is helping Haiti to appeal to the “black and brown” Americans. I believe that the administration is helping Haiti because it is really close to home; we are able to send supplies fairly quickly to them. Now I can’t say for certain the reason why they are helping Haiti because I’m not a part of the Obama administration. I believe the reason for Rush thinking is the race of the president. I believe he is thinking this because it is the reason that will become the most apparent and Identifiable to the general public is the color of his skin.
Personally I think that we should help Haiti because we are in the position to. Now with that being said I don’t think that we should spread our selves thin. We have people in the United states who are starving and below poverty level. These people are starting to slip through the cracks. As a Society we need to make sure our own people are ok and living well before we start to worry by others.
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Pat Robertson made some REALLY dumb and terrible comments about Haiti. I actually want to apologize for every Christian out there for his idiotic statements. He actually thinks he is somebody "important" and thinks he can say whatever he pleases and that is not the case. He probably has a few yes men around him that kisses his ass and does not argue with him about the things he says and does. When you are 9in the position he is in, you HAVE to have people around you that challenge what you say and give you different angles to look at things. Pat Robertson is like that deranged and unstable family member who says outlandish stuff at the family reunion barbecue, but everybody puts up with him because he has a lot of money LOL.
To say that a natural disaster happened because somebody made a pact with the Devil is moronic. We live on PLANET EARTH. Natural disasters are going to happen, and we should expect them to as well. The Earth had tsunamis and earthquakes WAY before humans were on this planet, so just too even think that is crazy. To say that things like this happen is because you sinned is a terrible way to look at things. Remember when Pat Robertson had prostate cancer? Did he get that because of HIS sins? I bet you won't hear him talking about that!
Bottom line, this is a time where the world can come together and show each other how compassionate we can be and that we are all in this together. What occurred in Haiti could happen to Canada tomorrow. It could happen to Great Britain next year. You never know! And who are we to question God and talk about his intentions? He obviously had a plan for this, and I think it was to bring people together. He wants to see how kind our hearts are. And if you do not like what Pat Robertson said, all you have to do is turn the channel or turn the TV off. That is the beauty of technology LOL. It is unjust to blame the people of Haiti for what happened to Haiti. I wonder what Pat Robertson said when Hurricane Katrina devastated New Orleans. Did the people of New Orleans make a pact with the Devil?
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